Fighting for people’s rights with experience that makes a difference.

Workplace fatality under investigation

It is common for many workers in North Carolina to have tasks that they perform on a relatively regular basis, such as routine cleaning. Despite an employee's familiarity with a certain task, he or she could still be at risk of injury while performing it. In fact, a recent fatal accident in another state remains under investigation.

The incident involved a 56-year-old man and a grain elevator. A co-worker reportedly drove by the job site and noticed that work had not been completed. As the worker felt that this was unusual, the employee apparently decided to investigate. When he could not locate the victim, he contacted authorities.

Initial reports indicate that the man became stuck in the elevator after he cleaned it. A representative with the sheriff's office reports that the incident remains under investigation. Fatal accidents such as this also typically spark an investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to determine whether workplace health or safety standards were violated.

While an investigation could potentially prevent similar accidents in the future, it will likely do little to help the man's family cope with the aftermath of his unexpected death. The emotional consequences of an accident such this are obvious to most people; however, some people may overlook the financial struggles the man's family may experience as a result of his death. Fortunately, they may be entitled to workers' compensation insurance benefits. Many in North Carolina who were injured in a workplace accident or lost a loved one often seek help from a professional with experience with such benefits to help ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve.

The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.